Beginning with the engine of your boat, you must begin by letting it warm up in the water before draining it completely. Then, replace dirty oil with high-quality oil and filters. For an inboard engine, flush the cooling system with water muffs and a garden hose until is reaches the normal operating temperature. If you have an outboard engine, ensure the drain holes are open and flush the system with clean water. Finish the process by removing the water pump hose and all drain plugs.
To prevent engine decay over the winter, add a fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank, fill the tank with fresh fuel and run the engine for a few moments so the stabilizer and gas run through the system. To completely protect the inner workings of the engine, use a fogging oil spray.
After the engine is taken care of, it is time to move on to the lower unit. Empty the unit of old gear oil, check for moisture and add new oil. Grease and lubricating the grease fittings with a marine lubricant can help prevent corrosion and oxidation.
To finish the preparation for winter, give your boat a good cleaning. Wipe it down, store the cushions and remove any valuables for the season. To finish the process, cover your boat with a durable cover or shrink wrap and store it in a temperature controlled and dry location.
Following these steps carefully will ensure that your boat is properly winterized and well-protected. This will give you peace of mind during the winter and will ensure the longevity of your boat. Proper preparation and maintenance during the winter can help preserve your boat’s quality and performance. Make sure to winterize your boat correctly and be safe this winter.
